This bill amends Section 6 of P.L.1968, c.413 (C.30:4D-6) to mandate Medicaid reimbursement for mental health rehabilitation services provided through accredited clubhouse programs. A "clubhouse program" is defined as a non-residential, community-based psychosocial rehabilitation initiative accredited by Clubhouse International, designed to assist members in overcoming emotional or behavioral challenges and transitioning to less restrictive care. The bill emphasizes the active participation of members in various operational aspects of the program, such as food service and employment training, which fosters social connectedness and community reintegration. It also highlights the effectiveness of these programs, noting that the only accredited clubhouse in New Jersey, Shore House, has a rehospitalization rate of less than 2%, compared to over 40% for adults with mental illness who do not have access to such services.

Furthermore, the bill includes a provision that prohibits any deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or other cost-sharing requirements for colonoscopies following a positive result on a non-colonoscopy colorectal cancer screening test, thereby improving access to essential preventive care for Medicaid-eligible individuals. The Commissioner of Human Services is also authorized to apply for necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement these provisions and secure federal financial participation for state Medicaid expenditures. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4D-6